Colin Kaepernick’s national anthem protest has polarized the nation, drawing vocal supporters and critics.

In a poll taken last week by E-Poll Marketing Research, the 49ers' backup quarterback was "disliked a lot" by 29 percent of those polled, beating out over 350 players named in the survey. Among NFL fans, the dislike was stronger, with 36 percent saying that they disliked him a lot.

But while Kaepernick has taken his share of criticism for kneeling during the national anthem at games in protest of police brutality of African-Americans, he has also gained a good deal of support. The poll showed that 42 percent of African-Americans like Kaepernick “a lot.”

Kaepernick’s jersey became a best-seller after the backup quarterback began his public protest.

Kaepernick has received another honor: He is featured on the latest cover of Time magazine, which hit newsstands Friday.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Atlanta Falcons edge rusher Jalon Walker (11) runs a drill as James Pearce Jr. (27) looks during the Atlanta Falcons Rookie Minicamp at the Atlanta Falcons Training Camp, Friday, May 9, 2025, in Flowery Branch. (Hyosub Shin/AJC)

Credit: Hyosub Shin/AJC

Featured

People carrying a giant pride flag participate in the annual Pride Parade in Atlanta on Sunday, Oct. 13, 2024. (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez